Aight, here's the deal. There are two reasons to give up dairy, and here they are.
1. It's bad for you. No, really. It's bad for you. Think about it for a second. No animal (outside of humans) drinks milk after infancy. And no animal drinks the milk of another animal. The following stats vary depending on what study you read, but it is true that humans have a lot of trouble digesting dairy. Nearly 40% of Whites are lactose intolerant. And the percentage jumps significantly for Latinos/Hispanics, Africans/African Americans, and others identifying as Black, and Asians (with nearly 90% of Asians having difficulty digesting dairy products). People say, "Oh, it tastes good. I love milk. I can't live without cheese..." Well, yeah, I get it. We've been raised with it. It's in most prepared food and, especially when you consider butter, it's very difficult to avoid. But none of that is evidence to the contrary of my point. Oh, and that, Milk, it does a body good bull shit? The FDA has an interest in dairy farms doing well, not in our health. Now, I know that's going all conspiracy theory. But seriously, what's the last drug they approved that didn't cause strokes or destroy your liver? In a for-profit world you gotta take responsibility for your own health and education. Government organizations aren't going to do it for you. (No, conservatives, that's not to be taken out of context and used as an argument against universal health care. We can have that discussion at a later date.)Bottom line: soy for your health.
2. Animal cruelty is very bad. Now, if you're not interested in this, or don't care about this point I can't make you. But, if that is an issue to you, so much so that you're interested in not eating meat, then you really want to go vegan, not simply vegetarian. Animals are treated with horrific cruelty at mass dairy production facilities (and egg collection facilities--again, another conversation), just as bad as slaughter houses, and arguably worse being that in dairy production they're used over and over again. They are pumped so full of hormones that milk literally fills their entire bodies because there is no place for it to go. It seeps out of orifices including their eyes. Their utters are never disconnected from the machines that pump them, and they become open sores which ooze puss and infection. Not only is the pain excruciating, but this is also a bullet under point 1. It's unhealthy for the people who drink it. It is estimated that around 95% of milk on American grocery shelves has detectable traces of puss. Makes you think twice about the milk mustache.
So, for these reasons, soy milk and soy in general as a replacement for dairy is a healthy and morally responsible choice. Here's to soy milk. Woo hoo.
(P.S. Caleb I love you, and your rants. Seriously. I'm also just passionate about certain things.)
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Sunday, November 15, 2009
London, England
For the first time in my life I can actually say that I needed a vacation.
Manolis and I had the most wonderful time. We spent every waking moment together, joined at the hip. I got to meet his brother and his brother's girlfriend, who Manolis lives with. We ate at this delightful vegetarian restaurant called Tibits (so adorable!), went to Bristol--home of his alma mater--for a day, saw Wicked, visited the Absolut Ice Bar, went to great pubs and exotic restaurants, took funny, touristy photos, and just genuinely enjoyed enjoyed each other's company.
And I got one.
Manolis and I had the most wonderful time. We spent every waking moment together, joined at the hip. I got to meet his brother and his brother's girlfriend, who Manolis lives with. We ate at this delightful vegetarian restaurant called Tibits (so adorable!), went to Bristol--home of his alma mater--for a day, saw Wicked, visited the Absolut Ice Bar, went to great pubs and exotic restaurants, took funny, touristy photos, and just genuinely enjoyed enjoyed each other's company.
It was the nicest 9 days I've had in a while. And with working 7 days a week, and all the pain and health bs lately, it was even nicer to have that much deserved break.
Now I'm jut looking forward to his visit in December!!! =)
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
How Things Are Goin'
Work:
Since August I've been working two jobs. Promo Wednesday-Saturday, Crazy Mocha Saturday-Tuesday. Enjoy them both a lot, but do not get paid enough and would very much like real job, normal schedule, benefits, and, well, yeah, to get paid more. =)
Friends:
Amanda's wonderful weekend visit was this past Friday to Sunday. Not enough time, but so nice to see her! We frolicked about the 'burgh in some of the most miserable weather Western PA could throw at us. I miss her already.
Travel:
Headed to London on Sunday. I know, it's been a long time (by Shannon standards). Looking forward to getting my ass off this continent for a li'l while. The 10ish days away are a much needed retreat.
Health:
Nothing to report. Still sick. No improvement. Still hopeful.
Schpiel:
Balance is the name of the game right now, and I don't have it. And the department that is suffering is definitely in my personal relationships. I just cannot be there as much as I want to be for the people in my life. Between working every single day and not feeling like doing anything when I'm not I am finding it impossible to keep in touch, catch up, and attend all the things I so desire to. I feel as though I am in a major transitional stage, but instead of it lasting a couple of months until I move home from grad school and get settled into a job and a place, I'm looking at a year or more of struggling financially and physically.
the Plan:
My desire is to land a job, a regular old 9-5 that pays around $35,000 a year. And stay in said job for a year. In that year, stay at home, pay off most of my debt (student loans will be around for a while...), and get healthy (I believe this can happen). At that point move to Tokyo for a year of teaching English. This can be followed by any number of delightful adventures, including snagging an Americorps position in the Pacific Northwest or moving to LA with friends. I'd still really like to be a roadie for a not so notable punk, rock, indie, hardcore, or whatever the fuck band. =) (Musicians will be jumping at the chance to hire me with that attitude.)
Tidbit:
I took a quiz about what kind of person you are in Oprah magazine (don't judge me!) and the results were scary-right. Here it is:
YOU ARE STRIVING TO BE SPONTANEOUS
You are an adventurer: Action-oriented, curious, outgoing, and often technically gifted, you live for new experiences. You are drawn to risk-taking and aren't afraid to fail. Generally restless, you tend to job-hop or choose a field that offers constant novelty. If you had to name your favorite place, it might be the center of attention—you're a born entertainer, and can easily adapt to any audience. While you collect many acquaintances, you're less likely to develop deep, committed relationships.What to watch out for: When you can't satisfy your thirst for variety and excitement, you may see yourself as trapped, which can lead to impulsive and self-destructive behavior—drinking, drugs, breaking off relationships, ditching financial responsibilities. Try to find value in some traditions; if you learn to appreciate repetitive experiences, you won't always feel the urge to bust free. And when a new opportunity thrills you, keep in mind that just because it sounds exciting, that doesn't mean it's good for you.Looking ahead: Life will have meaning for you as long as you feel stimulated. That might mean chasing twisters, exploring the polar ice caps, getting a degree in dance therapy, or becoming an astronaut. It might also mean reading new books, attending workshops, or letting yourself get swept up in an intoxicating romance. As a risk-lover with a lot of energy, you're a natural entrepreneur. You'll be happiest if you change jobs every so often and travel extensively. Movement is what keeps you going.
Well, that's me for sure. How funny.
Since August I've been working two jobs. Promo Wednesday-Saturday, Crazy Mocha Saturday-Tuesday. Enjoy them both a lot, but do not get paid enough and would very much like real job, normal schedule, benefits, and, well, yeah, to get paid more. =)
Friends:
Amanda's wonderful weekend visit was this past Friday to Sunday. Not enough time, but so nice to see her! We frolicked about the 'burgh in some of the most miserable weather Western PA could throw at us. I miss her already.
Travel:
Headed to London on Sunday. I know, it's been a long time (by Shannon standards). Looking forward to getting my ass off this continent for a li'l while. The 10ish days away are a much needed retreat.
Health:
Nothing to report. Still sick. No improvement. Still hopeful.
Schpiel:
Balance is the name of the game right now, and I don't have it. And the department that is suffering is definitely in my personal relationships. I just cannot be there as much as I want to be for the people in my life. Between working every single day and not feeling like doing anything when I'm not I am finding it impossible to keep in touch, catch up, and attend all the things I so desire to. I feel as though I am in a major transitional stage, but instead of it lasting a couple of months until I move home from grad school and get settled into a job and a place, I'm looking at a year or more of struggling financially and physically.
the Plan:
My desire is to land a job, a regular old 9-5 that pays around $35,000 a year. And stay in said job for a year. In that year, stay at home, pay off most of my debt (student loans will be around for a while...), and get healthy (I believe this can happen). At that point move to Tokyo for a year of teaching English. This can be followed by any number of delightful adventures, including snagging an Americorps position in the Pacific Northwest or moving to LA with friends. I'd still really like to be a roadie for a not so notable punk, rock, indie, hardcore, or whatever the fuck band. =) (Musicians will be jumping at the chance to hire me with that attitude.)
Tidbit:
I took a quiz about what kind of person you are in Oprah magazine (don't judge me!) and the results were scary-right. Here it is:
YOU ARE STRIVING TO BE SPONTANEOUS
You are an adventurer: Action-oriented, curious, outgoing, and often technically gifted, you live for new experiences. You are drawn to risk-taking and aren't afraid to fail. Generally restless, you tend to job-hop or choose a field that offers constant novelty. If you had to name your favorite place, it might be the center of attention—you're a born entertainer, and can easily adapt to any audience. While you collect many acquaintances, you're less likely to develop deep, committed relationships.What to watch out for: When you can't satisfy your thirst for variety and excitement, you may see yourself as trapped, which can lead to impulsive and self-destructive behavior—drinking, drugs, breaking off relationships, ditching financial responsibilities. Try to find value in some traditions; if you learn to appreciate repetitive experiences, you won't always feel the urge to bust free. And when a new opportunity thrills you, keep in mind that just because it sounds exciting, that doesn't mean it's good for you.Looking ahead: Life will have meaning for you as long as you feel stimulated. That might mean chasing twisters, exploring the polar ice caps, getting a degree in dance therapy, or becoming an astronaut. It might also mean reading new books, attending workshops, or letting yourself get swept up in an intoxicating romance. As a risk-lover with a lot of energy, you're a natural entrepreneur. You'll be happiest if you change jobs every so often and travel extensively. Movement is what keeps you going.
Well, that's me for sure. How funny.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
In the Event of a Fire...
...please do not use the elevators.
Don't ask me. I just wanted to write that.
I'm sitting at Crazy Mocha, Oakland (because, when I worked at Starbucks I was a patroning the shit out of their various locations as well), staring at this big painted map mural of sorts and trying to identify all of the countries to which I've been. And feeling a little douchy about it, because really, what jackass sees the world on a wall and can only think of its relation to himself? "Oh look, the whole fucking planet! Let's think of me, now, shall we?"
Anyway, it makes me think of my upcoming trip to London, and I'm pretty excited about that, I must say. You know what confuses the hell out of me? The United Kingdom. Just when I think I have it down, it goes all wonky on me again. Like, what the crap? England is a country, so is Scotland. Wales and Northern Ireland too. Ok, got it. And the UK is this sovereign state governing body thing that connects them all. And Great Britain is...what exactly? I'm sure I could Wikipedia this shit and have my answers in a matter of moments, but I've looked this up before and I always just lose myself halfway. Somehow anything beyond countries and continents is beyond me. Hello ugly American syndrome. Now, if England, Scotland, Wales, and N.I. were states, I'd be all over that. ;)
Things are better. Better than my last post. I'm not really feeling better physically, but that's really not what's important. It's keeping handle on yourself despite environmental setbacks. I think back to my Christian past and I do seem to find some positive applicable things amidst all the drama. (Actually, most of it is valuable and reasonable...just not executed well by people. Typical.) But yes, I remember distinctly being told to be joyful in the Lord. You will be happy and sad as you go through life. Because you're human and that's how that works. But to remain joyful is to be more Godly than worldly.
I like that. I believe that. Asking myself about my emotional foundation rather than fretting over my emotional state is a net positive, I believe. And more effective too.
So, a second ago I went on this long rant about being self conscious and wanting people to like me. Then I deleted it because it was dumb. Just thought you should know. We operate under an open and honest policy here.
Mmmmmm, Sushi Boat. Did you know that the avocado roll is still only TWO NINETY-FIVE?! Holy crap, Sushi Boat, why don't you just go down on me? Same effect. You can't get a gosh-darn latte for $2.95 (especially not a soy one...damn vegans). This is unprecedented. I love you, sweet, sweet Pittsburgh, despite your piss poor decision making demonstrated in bringing the G20 Suck-it to town. It's ok, at least two people I know got arrested and that's funny at least.
Wow, ok, no crazy stream-of-consciousness freewrite going on here, folks. Move along. I'm going to shut up before I hurt myself.
Don't ask me. I just wanted to write that.
I'm sitting at Crazy Mocha, Oakland (because, when I worked at Starbucks I was a patroning the shit out of their various locations as well), staring at this big painted map mural of sorts and trying to identify all of the countries to which I've been. And feeling a little douchy about it, because really, what jackass sees the world on a wall and can only think of its relation to himself? "Oh look, the whole fucking planet! Let's think of me, now, shall we?"
Anyway, it makes me think of my upcoming trip to London, and I'm pretty excited about that, I must say. You know what confuses the hell out of me? The United Kingdom. Just when I think I have it down, it goes all wonky on me again. Like, what the crap? England is a country, so is Scotland. Wales and Northern Ireland too. Ok, got it. And the UK is this sovereign state governing body thing that connects them all. And Great Britain is...what exactly? I'm sure I could Wikipedia this shit and have my answers in a matter of moments, but I've looked this up before and I always just lose myself halfway. Somehow anything beyond countries and continents is beyond me. Hello ugly American syndrome. Now, if England, Scotland, Wales, and N.I. were states, I'd be all over that. ;)
Things are better. Better than my last post. I'm not really feeling better physically, but that's really not what's important. It's keeping handle on yourself despite environmental setbacks. I think back to my Christian past and I do seem to find some positive applicable things amidst all the drama. (Actually, most of it is valuable and reasonable...just not executed well by people. Typical.) But yes, I remember distinctly being told to be joyful in the Lord. You will be happy and sad as you go through life. Because you're human and that's how that works. But to remain joyful is to be more Godly than worldly.
I like that. I believe that. Asking myself about my emotional foundation rather than fretting over my emotional state is a net positive, I believe. And more effective too.
So, a second ago I went on this long rant about being self conscious and wanting people to like me. Then I deleted it because it was dumb. Just thought you should know. We operate under an open and honest policy here.
Mmmmmm, Sushi Boat. Did you know that the avocado roll is still only TWO NINETY-FIVE?! Holy crap, Sushi Boat, why don't you just go down on me? Same effect. You can't get a gosh-darn latte for $2.95 (especially not a soy one...damn vegans). This is unprecedented. I love you, sweet, sweet Pittsburgh, despite your piss poor decision making demonstrated in bringing the G20 Suck-it to town. It's ok, at least two people I know got arrested and that's funny at least.
Wow, ok, no crazy stream-of-consciousness freewrite going on here, folks. Move along. I'm going to shut up before I hurt myself.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Venting
Thought the worst was over, but it was just beginning.
Today was a really bad day. I don't like to classify entire days like that too much, because you only get so many and I like to find the good in as much as possible, but today, despite it's good moments, sucked major ass.
First, I woke up (like usual since mid-August) in terrible pain. The kind where you just think, forget it. Nothing is worth getting out of bed today. But then you realize that laying down isn't particularly comfortable either, and you actually feel better as you get moving and the day rolls on.
So, I skype with Manolis (bright spot in the day), then shower. Then (and here's one of those low, felling sorry for myself moments. They're rare, but they happen.), I went to wash my face, but I couldn't. My hands were so weak and hurt so badly that I could not squeeze the bottle hard enough to get any facewash out of it. I tried everything. Sitting it on the corner of the sink and leaning on it, biting it, pushing it up against my jaw with my wrist. And I realized that I could not do it; I could not wash my face. How much more of a mundane, routine task could there be? And I couldn't accomplish it.
So I sat on the floor and cried.
Like that was going to help anything.
Got to work at the coffee shop. Found out I had to work another promo shift tonight. Ok, cool. Thought that was all behind me, but whatever. As long as they were cool with me coming down when my other job was over, what was the big deal?
Well, without disclosing too many details, the night was awful. NO ONE wanted what I was handing out. I needed a relatively large number of names. The bars were all dead (because it's Monday). And they had all been hit by other reps already anyway because I got down there later than everyone else.
So, in a moment of desperation I texted my boss, boss. Not my team leader, but my above that person boss. Stupid. No response and I'm sure I just annoyed her. I ended up leaving around midnight with half the names I needed. Completely depressed that I failed at what I was assigned to do. Stressed that I may have pissed people off. Scared that it could potentially threaten my future at this job. And irritated that I am out doing a job that is not technically what I was hired for on a night I don't work without fair warning or any support.
Bad day.
On top of everything else, there are so many people I want to hang out with, catch up with, or call who I just haven't because I've been running like crazy and I feel terrible about it. Who wants to be a bad friend to the people they care about.
Oh, and my car (the one that just got a $3,100 repair. No I'm not kidding.) has been making a noise since I picked it up from the shop on Thursday, so it's going back in tomorrow morning. And they better fix whatever is wrong without charging me if they know what's good for them, because I am a woman on fire just looking for the wrong person to mess with me.
So, as promised, this is nothing but some mindless venting. But I needed it and am pretty unapologetic for it at this point. Just sorry if you read it all. Maybe next time I'll offer up some thoughtful insight on existence and the universe.
Today was a really bad day. I don't like to classify entire days like that too much, because you only get so many and I like to find the good in as much as possible, but today, despite it's good moments, sucked major ass.
First, I woke up (like usual since mid-August) in terrible pain. The kind where you just think, forget it. Nothing is worth getting out of bed today. But then you realize that laying down isn't particularly comfortable either, and you actually feel better as you get moving and the day rolls on.
So, I skype with Manolis (bright spot in the day), then shower. Then (and here's one of those low, felling sorry for myself moments. They're rare, but they happen.), I went to wash my face, but I couldn't. My hands were so weak and hurt so badly that I could not squeeze the bottle hard enough to get any facewash out of it. I tried everything. Sitting it on the corner of the sink and leaning on it, biting it, pushing it up against my jaw with my wrist. And I realized that I could not do it; I could not wash my face. How much more of a mundane, routine task could there be? And I couldn't accomplish it.
So I sat on the floor and cried.
Like that was going to help anything.
Got to work at the coffee shop. Found out I had to work another promo shift tonight. Ok, cool. Thought that was all behind me, but whatever. As long as they were cool with me coming down when my other job was over, what was the big deal?
Well, without disclosing too many details, the night was awful. NO ONE wanted what I was handing out. I needed a relatively large number of names. The bars were all dead (because it's Monday). And they had all been hit by other reps already anyway because I got down there later than everyone else.
So, in a moment of desperation I texted my boss, boss. Not my team leader, but my above that person boss. Stupid. No response and I'm sure I just annoyed her. I ended up leaving around midnight with half the names I needed. Completely depressed that I failed at what I was assigned to do. Stressed that I may have pissed people off. Scared that it could potentially threaten my future at this job. And irritated that I am out doing a job that is not technically what I was hired for on a night I don't work without fair warning or any support.
Bad day.
On top of everything else, there are so many people I want to hang out with, catch up with, or call who I just haven't because I've been running like crazy and I feel terrible about it. Who wants to be a bad friend to the people they care about.
Oh, and my car (the one that just got a $3,100 repair. No I'm not kidding.) has been making a noise since I picked it up from the shop on Thursday, so it's going back in tomorrow morning. And they better fix whatever is wrong without charging me if they know what's good for them, because I am a woman on fire just looking for the wrong person to mess with me.
So, as promised, this is nothing but some mindless venting. But I needed it and am pretty unapologetic for it at this point. Just sorry if you read it all. Maybe next time I'll offer up some thoughtful insight on existence and the universe.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Money, Money, Money...MONEY!
Working like crazy right now. Covering shifts for Crazy Mocha (oh yeah, I work there) and then there are the crazy shifts for the other job due to the G20 suck-it as I've taken to calling it. So, basically, here's the rundown.
Work promo gig Friday night til 1am, Crazy Mocha 8-4, promo 9-1, then again with the coffee shop today 3-9:30. After I close here I have to go somewhere (anywhere) to do yet another promo shift, and get done as soon as I get my numbers, but on a Sunday night who knows when that will be...then Crazy Mocha tomorrow and Tuesday 4-close, with promo starting again Wednesday night.
Blah, what a week.
And, even given all of that, I'll actually be making less money than usual because we're not making up all of the hours that we missed Wednesday and Thrusday due to G20. Grrrr...
So, that's what's up. I'll take it though. Honestly, when I think back to the Comm Dept at CU, I'll take working two part time jobs with a Master's Degree. Whatev. Anything's better than being out there.
That said, I do miss so many people. I can't wait for Amanda to come visit (October 16th!!), and I honestly would love to go back for a visit sometime. I'm sure Boulder could be quite enjoyable without the stress of the department. =) Would like to experience that.
Giving a lot of thought to my life and the process in general. Obviously the level of cliche-ity of the phrase "you don't know what you've got till it's gone" is off the charts. However, the accuracy of that statement is not to be messed with. I am the biggest appreciator of life ever. Hands down. But never, ever did I (nor could I) truely appreciate waking up each morning without pain. Every day is a struggle now. Simple tasks seem daunting. And even things I look forward to (going to visit Manolis in October!!! =D) are met with at least some hesitation as I wonder how well I'll be and how much I'll really be able to do "normal" things.
It's really discouraging to know how well I was in June and July then to totally relapse in August for seemingly no reason and with no improvement in sight. I have lost no hope. I have great resolve that I will be well again, but the daily grind can certainly get to you at times.
In the meantime, those able should come and visit me at Crazy Mocha in Cranberry! =) What in the world would you rather be doing?
Work promo gig Friday night til 1am, Crazy Mocha 8-4, promo 9-1, then again with the coffee shop today 3-9:30. After I close here I have to go somewhere (anywhere) to do yet another promo shift, and get done as soon as I get my numbers, but on a Sunday night who knows when that will be...then Crazy Mocha tomorrow and Tuesday 4-close, with promo starting again Wednesday night.
Blah, what a week.
And, even given all of that, I'll actually be making less money than usual because we're not making up all of the hours that we missed Wednesday and Thrusday due to G20. Grrrr...
So, that's what's up. I'll take it though. Honestly, when I think back to the Comm Dept at CU, I'll take working two part time jobs with a Master's Degree. Whatev. Anything's better than being out there.
That said, I do miss so many people. I can't wait for Amanda to come visit (October 16th!!), and I honestly would love to go back for a visit sometime. I'm sure Boulder could be quite enjoyable without the stress of the department. =) Would like to experience that.
Giving a lot of thought to my life and the process in general. Obviously the level of cliche-ity of the phrase "you don't know what you've got till it's gone" is off the charts. However, the accuracy of that statement is not to be messed with. I am the biggest appreciator of life ever. Hands down. But never, ever did I (nor could I) truely appreciate waking up each morning without pain. Every day is a struggle now. Simple tasks seem daunting. And even things I look forward to (going to visit Manolis in October!!! =D) are met with at least some hesitation as I wonder how well I'll be and how much I'll really be able to do "normal" things.
It's really discouraging to know how well I was in June and July then to totally relapse in August for seemingly no reason and with no improvement in sight. I have lost no hope. I have great resolve that I will be well again, but the daily grind can certainly get to you at times.
In the meantime, those able should come and visit me at Crazy Mocha in Cranberry! =) What in the world would you rather be doing?
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Chillin' with No Make-up On
On the front porch with my dad, just hanging out. Thought I would take a picture for the fun of it since I never use my computer's camera and I also remarkably do not look like shit even though I just rolled out of bed today.I feel absolutely terrible. One of the bad days. I think I should start dedicating this blog to chronicling the battle with my illness. Each day a new adventure. Or just start a new one for that sole purpose.
Everything is swollen, everything hurts. Sharp pain in my shoulders, weakness and aching in my extremities.
Autoimmune diseases can suck it, that's what I say.
In one of my more pathetic moments, I woke up today to a text from Manolis and just started bawling, but I didn't know if it was because I was sad that he is so far away or that I am 24 years old and in too much pain to reply to his message.
All in all, wasn't the best morning, but at least I felt better after a phone call this afternoon. =)
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